Justin Hodges reveals desire to remain in Brisbane

Justin Hodges has revealed his desire to extend his career at Brisbane as the former Test star prepares for his first game in Broncos colours in 511 days.

In a big boost for the Broncos ahead of tomorrow night’s trial clash with the Cowboys in Alice Springs, Hodges is putting plans to play in the British Super League on the backburner in a bid to continue his career at Red Hill.

The 28-year-old is off contract at season’s end. With skipper Darren Lockyer also contemplating playing on in 2012, the Broncos could face the prospect of a salary cap squeeze by trying to retain Hodges and their champion five-eighth.

Hodges stands to attract offers in excess of $400,000 from Super League clubs, but says he has no intention of quitting the Broncos after the club’s loyalty throughout his recovery from an achilles injury that wiped out his season last year.

The Broncos face some tough retention decisions. Lockyer is a free agent for 2012, star forwards Sam Thaiday and Ben Te’o are off contract at the end of next season and rising stars such as Josh Hoffman, Jharal Yow Yeh and Andrew McCullough will eventually require contract upgrades.

Amid that group, the Broncos must find room for Hodges, but chief executive Paul White says the club is comfortable with the status quo.